We all have things we dread doing, things we put off until the
last minute and then rush to get done. This article for instance, I've known
about it for at least 4 months, what I've wanted to write has been in my head
for two weeks, yet I have waited until the last minute to put it together.
There are always those customers we know we need to call, reports to complete,
or talks we need to have but for whatever reason we put them off until we get
the courage up, the time, or the right moment to finally take hold of and do.

When I researched why people procrastinate I found some very
good reasons why and how to overcome this habit we can easily fall into.

* Lack of structure - we have so many distractions, cell phones,
social media, emails, Google. These all play into shifting our focus from the
task at hand. Set aside these distractions, turn off your phone for a while,
shut down all your browsers except what is absolutely needed and give yourself
an hour of uninterrupted time to accomplish your task.

* It's unpleasant, boring, or overwhelming - these are the tasks
we tend to put off most. Instead of looking at the entire task as a whole,
divide it into more manageable projects. When it's accomplished reward yourself,
take a break, go for a walk, refresh. You will have a better sense of
accomplishment.

* Timing - we may have something that once accomplished will not
reap the reward right away. We tend to be instant gratification seekers, so
these tasks go undone until completely necessary. Try to look past the now and
see the full picture.

* Anxiety - avoiding something for fear of failure. This would be
one of the most common reasons to put something off. Fear of the unknown or
being judged can wreak havoc on our confidence and so we avoid things. Look for
ways to ease stress, think positively and do your very best.

* Self
Confidence - when we have to deal with difficult tasks people can feel weak or
inadequate and tend to avoid activities that could help them acquire new
knowledge and skills. What do you have to lose? Do something hard and
accomplish it, it's ok to be successful. You deserve it.

Will
this help me to not procrastinate next time I have to write an article or do a
presentation? I think so. I recognize my triggers that make me put things off.
Sometimes it's about recognizing the issue and making a change.